by Morgan Pirtle| Fall 2024 |
This semester in Oxford has truly been life-changing. I know everyone says that, and that it sounds cliche, but it’s true! I have learned, seen, and experienced so much in the 90 days that I’ve been here. I’ve been to four countries, ten airports, taken many trains, buses, and taxis, visited countless historical sites, and have made so many memories along the way. Whether it was rappelling down a cliff, then hiking up a fell in the same day in the Lakes District, learning about gladiators in the Colosseum, or standing on the beautiful Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, I have been on so many adventures I never thought I would experience. I am constantly in awe of the history that flows deep through seemingly every street here, along with the natural and architectural beauty of each city.
Every travel experience has been nothing short of amazing, but by the end of each trip, I always found myself ready to be back in Oxford, which is a testament to how I have truly found a home here. Walking the streets, visiting my favorite cafes and shops, touring the colleges, and strolling in the meadow have all become part of my weekly routine. Having tea and scones has become one of my favorite meals, and I love the Oxford house and the people who fill it more than anything. Our classes became less dreadful and something to look forward to with my friends. We got to learn about the history of the place we live, and the influential people that have shaped the ground we walk on today.
This experience has exceeded my expectations in so many ways, but also taught me to be more open in my expectations. When living in a foreign country, travelling, and learning the way of life here, things are likely to be different or to change. As an anxious and type-A person, living in Europe has pushed me to be more flexible and roll with things as they come, and to accept that things will happen that are out of my control. This was actually one of the things I was most nervous about before the semester started, but I am proud of how much I’ve grown. Two years ago, I was terrified of the thought of living three hours away from my family, even though I was moving to an environment that I knew and had grown up in. Now, I can say that I’ve lived in England for three months, going the longest I ever have without seeing my family and friends at home, and that I am perfectly fine! I am more confident than ever in myself and my capabilities, and I have learned how to navigate so much on my own.
This has been the fastest, most challenging, influential, and best 90 days of my life. I have made memories and friends to last a lifetime, and would not trade this semester for anything in the world!
